US Military on America’s Mountain

PPIHC
November 11, 2024

THANK YOU TO ALL MILITARY VETERANS

Colorado Springs, Colorado — The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, is proud to honor our military veterans this Veterans Day. Whether a current or former race official, volunteer, race fan, board member, sponsor, driver or crew member, your service to the nation is appreciated.

As the second oldest auto race in the United States, we are built on tradition, dedication and performing at the highest level. The race has been run every year since 1916 with the exception of 1917-1919 and 1942-1945 when racing was halted during the two World Wars.

In 1942, Colorado Springs’ own US Army Garrison, Ft. Carson, at that time, Camp Carson, was established. Soldiers from the base have been some of the biggest fans of the Race to the Clouds.

Les Mulnix, a US Army Air Force recruiter, is pictured above at Glen Cove with third place finisher, Johnny Mauro, in 1948 in his Phil Kraft Special Alfa Romeo 308.

Mulnix was also photographed at the summit of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain with his recruiting sign the same year.

Cooperation and support from Ft. Carson for the Pikes Peak Hill Climb have included volunteer personnel in roles from radio communication to medical tents.

In 1950, a soldier is pictured monitoring the race from his position near Elk Park as Johnny Good races by.

Twin brothers, Frank and Nick Sanborn, former soldiers at Camp Carson, showcased their division-winning Oldsmobile Tornado in 1968 at the army post.

Shortly after SSG Talia Smith (first photo) of the US Army’s 4th Infantry Division Band honored America with the National Anthem, a convoy from the 10th Special Forces Group transported the checkered flags from start line to summit, delivering them to Derek Jordan, the finish line flagman.